Live to work or work to live? The search for work-life balance in 21st century Japan

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Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the debate around and current state of "work-life balance" in Japan. While work-life balance has become a topic of discussion in Japan, little progress has been made in the direction of "improved" work-life balance. Based on a comparison of pre-"bubble" and post-"bubble" Japan, a model is developed of the factors that influence, and the outcomes of, individuals' work-life choices. Influencing factors include specific economic, social, cultural, and demographic conditions, and changes in these conditions. Outcomes include efforts by government, companies, and individuals to improve work-life balance. Among other conclusions, the author argues that "culture matters," and that the meaning of work itself differs in Japan from that in other countries.

Journal

  • 言語文化

    言語文化 12 (2), [311]-344, 2009-12-31

    Doshisha Society for the Study of Language and Culture

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